Two Kojonup farmers are appearing in the Western Australian Supreme Court this week.

ABC TV

Members of the public will now be able to follow the landmark Supreme Court trial between two Western Australian grain farmers online.

Kojonup organic farmer Steve Marsh is suing his neighbour Michael Baxter for loss of income and damages for allegedly contaminated his property with genetically modified canola in 2010.

Depending on what the court decides, it may prompt new legislation around property rights.

Western Australian Chief Justice Wayne Martin said the civil trial of Marsh v Baxter, which is currently being heard by the Hon Justice Kenneth Martin, had attracted widespread community interest both in Western Australia and elsewhere.

“Many people who have a real interest in this matter are from rural areas and can’t attend the court personally, so by publishing the transcript online, it provides an opportunity to many people that would not otherwise be available,” the Chief Justice said.

“This is another way in which the Court can be open and accountable and allow the public to learn about how our courts operate.”

The trial, which commenced on February 10, is set down for three weeks.

Initially, only the transcript of the opening submissions will be available to ensure the trial process is not compromised.

All transcripts from the trial will be progressively posted on the Court’s website, with final timing being in the hands of the trial Judge.